After having a tree cut down, you're left with an unsightly stump. You have two main options: grind it down or remove it entirely. Both methods have their place, and the right choice depends on your specific situation, budget, and future plans for that spot.
WHAT IS STUMP GRINDING?
Stump grinding uses a powerful machine with a rotating cutting wheel to chip away at the stump. The grinder reduces the stump to small wood chips, typically grinding 6-8 inches below ground level. The root system is left in the ground but will naturally decay over time.
The process: A stump grinder is positioned over the stump, and the operator systematically moves the cutting wheel back and forth, grinding the wood into mulch. For a typical 24-inch stump, this takes about 15-30 minutes.
WHAT IS STUMP REMOVAL?
Complete stump removal involves extracting the entire stump and its root ball from the ground. This is typically done with heavy equipment like an excavator or backhoe. The stump is literally pulled or dug out of the ground, roots and all.
The process: The area around the stump is excavated, major roots are cut, and the stump is leveraged out of the ground. This leaves a significant hole that needs to be filled and can disturb a large area of your yard.
COMPARISON AT A GLANCE
| Factor | Stump Grinding | Stump Removal |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $100 - $400 | $300 - $800+ |
| Time | 15-60 minutes | 2-4 hours |
| Yard Disruption | Minimal | Significant |
| Roots Remain | Yes (decay naturally) | No |
| Hole Left Behind | Small depression | Large hole |
WHEN TO CHOOSE STUMP GRINDING
Stump grinding is the right choice for most homeowners. Consider grinding when:
- You want a cost-effective solution: Grinding typically costs 50-75% less than removal
- You're planting grass or landscaping: The ground-level result is perfect for lawn or garden beds
- You want minimal yard disruption: Only the immediate stump area is affected
- The stump is near structures: Grinding won't disturb foundations, patios, or fences
- You need it done quickly: Most stumps can be ground in under an hour
WHEN TO CHOOSE STUMP REMOVAL
Complete removal makes sense in specific situations:
- You're building on the site: Foundations and concrete require complete root removal
- You're planting a new tree in the same spot: The old root system would compete with new roots
- The tree species sends up suckers: Some trees (like willows) sprout from roots even after grinding
- You're installing underground utilities: Pipes and cables need root-free paths
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE ROOTS?
This is the most common question we get. With stump grinding, the roots stay in the ground but will naturally decompose over 5-10 years. They won't regrow or cause problems for most yards. The decomposition actually enriches the soil.
If you're concerned about roots, keep in mind that even with complete stump removal, some smaller roots will remain in the soil. There's no practical way to remove every root.
WHAT ABOUT THE WOOD CHIPS?
Stump grinding produces a pile of wood chips—usually 4-6 times the volume of the original stump. You have a few options:
- Use as mulch: Spread in garden beds or around trees (let it age a few months first)
- Fill the hole: Use chips to fill the depression, topped with soil and grass seed
- Haul away: We can remove the chips for an additional fee
Our Recommendation
For 95% of homeowners in the Greenville and Upstate SC area, stump grinding is the best choice. It's faster, more affordable, and leaves your yard in great shape. We only recommend complete removal when there's a specific reason the roots need to go.
Get a Free QuoteREADY TO REMOVE THAT STUMP?
Whether you need grinding or removal, Nelson Land & Stump can help. We serve Greenville, Anderson, Easley, Clemson, and all of Upstate South Carolina. Call us at (864) 760-9203 or request a free quote online. We'll assess your situation and recommend the best approach for your property.